Introduction

Calgary's Outdoor Water Restrictions: Understanding the Stages and When They Apply

Introduction

Calgary's water conservation measures include mandatory outdoor water restrictions implemented in stages depending on the severity of the water shortage. Understanding the stages and when they apply is crucial for responsible water use and adherence to regulations.

Stages of Mandatory Outdoor Water Restrictions

There are four stages of mandatory outdoor water restrictions in Calgary:

Stage 1: Voluntary Water Conservation

* Encourage voluntary water conservation measures, such as reducing irrigation and avoiding non-essential outdoor water use.

Stage 2: Mandatory Outdoor Water Restrictions

* Limit outdoor watering to specific days and times, typically early morning or late evening. * Prohibit the use of sprinklers, sprayers, and soaker hoses. * Allow handheld watering devices with a spring-loaded nozzle.

Stage 3: Enhanced Mandatory Outdoor Water Restrictions

* Further reduce outdoor watering days and times. * Allow hand-held watering devices only at certain times of the day. * Prohibit all other outdoor water use, including car washing and filling pools.

Stage 4: Extreme Mandatory Outdoor Water Restrictions

* Ban all non-essential outdoor water use, including irrigation, car washing, and filling pools. * Allow limited outdoor watering for specific purposes, such as watering gardens with a hand-held device.

Implementation of Restrictions

The City of Calgary will implement mandatory outdoor water restrictions based on current water conditions and forecasted demand. Residents will be notified through various channels, including official city websites, social media, and media releases.

Penalties for Violations

Violating mandatory outdoor water restrictions may result in fines or penalties. It is important to abide by the regulations to ensure water conservation and avoid potential consequences.

Conclusion

Understanding the stages of mandatory outdoor water restrictions in Calgary is essential for responsible water use and compliance with city regulations. By adhering to these measures, residents can contribute to water conservation efforts and ensure a sustainable water supply for the future.